In a clash of titans, Benfica braces to welcome Sporting Lisbon at the iconic Estadio da Luz on Tuesday night, with hopes pinned on overturning a first-leg deficit in the thrilling semi-final of the Taca de Portugal.
The Eagles are fervently aiming to soar into the final of the competition for the first time since the 2020-21 season, while their rivals, the Leoes, are determined to end their four-year longing for another shot at the Taca de Portugal glory.
Match Preview
Benfica endured a tough 2-1 defeat against Sporting Lisbon at the Estadio Jose Alvalade in the first leg of the Taca de Portugal semi-final back on February 29.
The nail-biting encounter saw Pedro Goncalves and Viktor Gyokeres finding the net for the Lions, only to be countered by Fredrik Aursnes, offering the Eagles a glimmer of hope.
However, Roger Schmidt’s squad faced a harsh 5-0 reality check against Porto in the league shortly after.
Nevertheless, they’ve since rallied, going unbeaten in five matches across all competitions, including a recent hard-fought 1-0 victory over Chaves.
With eyes set on a possible treble this season, Benfica’s hunger for success is palpable.
Trailing Sporting by a mere point in the league, albeit having played a game more, and with a Europa League quarter-final clash against Marseille looming, the Eagles are primed for a fierce battle to secure a spot in the Taca de Portugal final.
Both sides have locked horns twice this season, each claiming victory once with a 2-1 scoreline, favoring the home team on both occasions.
Should this trend persist, brace yourselves for extra time and possibly penalties, though both teams will undoubtedly strive to settle matters within regulation time, especially with another league showdown looming just four days later.
Sporting Lisbon marches into this crucial encounter fresh off a spirited comeback, clinching a 2-1 victory over Estrela Amadora and maintaining their pole position in the Primeira Liga.
Ruben Amorim’s men, however, bid adieu to their Europa League aspirations following a close defeat to Atalanta BC.
As they square up against Benfica, Sporting Lisbon eyes firmly set on the Taca de Portugal and Primeira Liga titles, with Benfica standing as the final hurdle in their quest for glory.
Team News
Benfica breathes a sigh of relief with a clean bill of health and no suspensions, affording Schmidt a plethora of options.
Spanish defender Juan Bernat’s return bolsters the squad after a lengthy layoff due to injury, while Marcos Leonardo gears up to lead the frontline, supported by top scorer Rafa Silva.
Meanwhile, Sporting Lisbon continues to miss the midfield prowess of Goncalves, sidelined since mid-March, along with goalkeeper Antonio Adan, absent due to a thigh injury.
The sensational Gyokeres, with 36 goals in 40 appearances, remains a formidable force upfront.
Possible Lineups
Benfica: (4-2-3-1)
Trubin;
Bah, Morato, Otamendi, Aursnes;
Luis, Neves;
Di Maria, Silva, Mario;
Leonardo
Sporting Lisbon: (3-4-3)
Israel;
Diomande, Coates, Reis;
Catamo, Hjulmand, Morita, Paulinho;
Trincao, Gyokeres, Santos
Prediction: Benfica 1-1 Sporting Lisbon
We anticipate a tense affair with both sides boasting quality players. Expect cautious gameplay from both ends, especially considering their imminent league rematch. While we predict a deadlock, goals from either side are on the cards.
- Prediction: Draw
- Betting Tip: Both Teams to Score Yes
